Edamame (Soy Beans)

You may have had edamame (also known as soy beans) as an appetizer at a Japanese restaurant, tucked away in their fuzzy little pods and sprinkled with salt. Soy can be found in many forms – soymilk, soy protein, edamame, soy sauce, bean paste, tempeh, tofu, meat alternatives, and even as an additive to many packaged foods. The isoflavones (a type of compound called phytoestrogens) in soy foods have been linked to a decreased risk for osteoporosis, while the calcium and magnesium in soy may help to lessen PMS symptoms, regulate blood sugar and prevent migraine headaches. However, too much soy can could lead to hormonal and health issues, so soy is best consumed in moderation.